The Dental Bridge Procedure
Replace Missing Teeth at Gentle Family Dentistry
Are you ready to smile with no gaps in your smile and feel confident again? With dental bridges, our dentist in Bakersfield can replace lost teeth and restore function to your smile. Don’t wait any longer! Contact our dental office today by calling 661-664-9900 to schedule your consultation.
Our Bakersfield, CA, dentist explains the dental bridge procedure to ensure you know what to expect. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have about tooth replacement options.
How the Dental Bridge Procedure Works
Dental bridges are an effective solution for people who have missing teeth. They bridge the gap between teeth by anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to the surrounding natural teeth (abutments). The dental bridge process involves several steps, including consultation and evaluation, preparing the abutment teeth and placing a temporary bridge, fitting and placement, and a follow-up appointment.
What a Dental Bridge is Made Of
A dental bridge consists of the following components:
- Pontic: This is the term for the artificial teeth that replace the missing natural teeth. Pontics can be made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these materials.
- Abutment Teeth: These are natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap from the missing tooth. They serve as support for the bridge. If natural teeth are used, they’re often reduced in size to accommodate the bridge.
- Dental Crowns: These are fixed onto the abutment teeth and hold the pontic in place. Depending on the design of the bridge, the restoration can be full dental crowns that cover the entire abutment tooth or partial coverage like inlays or onlays.
- Connectors: These are the parts that connect the pontic to the retainers or crowns. They can be rigid (as in conventional bridges) or non-rigid (as in some types of removable bridges).
- Framework: In some bridges, there’s a metal or porcelain framework that provides additional strength and support.
Dental Bridge Process
Consultation
The first step is a consultation with our Bakersfield dentist. During this appointment, Dr. Garger will evaluate your oral health and discuss your options for replacing missing teeth. We may also take digital X-rays and impressions of your existing healthy teeth to create a model of your mouth, ensuring your custom bridge is a perfect fit.
Preparing the Abutment Teeth and Placing a Temporary Bridge
Once our dentist has determined that traditional dental bridges are the best treatment for you, we’ll prepare the abutment teeth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth that will support the bridge. Dr. Garger will then take another set of impressions to create a mold that will be used to create your permanent bridge.
While your permanent bridge is being made, we’ll place a temporary dental bridge to protect your abutment teeth and help you eat and speak normally while waiting for your permanent restoration to be created.
Fitting and Placement
Once your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to our Bakersfield, CA, dental office for the fitting and placement appointment. During this appointment, Dr. Garger will remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent bridge to your abutment teeth. They’ll then make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit. With dental cement, it will be set into place.
Follow-up Appointment
After your bridge has been placed, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that everything is healing properly. During this appointment, we’ll check the fit of your bridge and make any necessary adjustments. We’ll also provide you with instructions on how to care for your new bridge to ensure its longevity.
Make sure to take great care of your oral health to ensure your dental bridge lasts as long as possible.
Post-Procedure Care
After your dental bridge procedure, there are certain practices that you’ll need to follow, including:
- Oral Hygiene Habits: Keeping the remaining teeth healthy and strong is crucial for the longevity of the dental bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.
- Dietary Adjustments: Initially, you’ll want to stick with eating soft foods and avoid anything that could put undue pressure on the new bridge.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist can ensure the bridge remains intact and the adjacent teeth remain healthy.
For those who received implant-supported bridges, or another type of bridge, ask the dentist for specific instructions for post-procedure care.
Frequently Asked Questions
While dental bridges are generally safe and well-tolerated, some potential risks and complications may include sensitivity, discomfort, or gum irritation after the procedure. In rare cases, there may be an allergic reaction to the materials used in the bridge. Patients must follow their dentist’s aftercare instructions to minimize any potential issues.
Most patients experience minimal to no discomfort during the dental bridge procedure. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the teeth being treated, ensuring the patient is comfortable throughout the process. After the procedure, there may be slight soreness or sensitivity, which usually subsides within a few days.
Smile Confidently Again!
Are you ready to have a complete smile? Schedule your appointment with our Bakersfield dentist today by contacting our dental office at 661-664-9900. Dr. Jonathan Garger will evaluate your case and discuss dental bridges with you as a treatment option.